Form-Fitting Protective Headgear with Integrated Fastening System and Detachable Eye Shield

ABSTRACT

Provided is a protective headgear that includes a first shell section, second shell section, third shell section, and fourth shell section. The first shell section is configured to extend about a head of the user, and include a first central portion, a first strap and a second strap that extend from the first shell section. The first central portion includes a first protective layer and a second protective layer disposed atop the first protective layer. The second shell section is configured to extend about a jaw of the user, and include a second central portion, a third strap and a fourth strap that extend from the second shell section. The third shell section is connected to the first shell section by the first strap and the third strap, and the fourth shell section is connected to the second shell section by the second strap and the fourth strap.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/309,333 filed on Mar. 16, 2016, the contentsof which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present application relates to headgear. More specifically, thepresent application is directed to a form-fitting protective headgearwith an integrated fastening system and a detachable eye shield.

Brief Discussion of Related Art

Millions of people participate in various athletic activities andsports. In the United States, fifteen percent of all sports-relatedinjuries are concussions, a type of head injury. Certain sports involvecontact among participants (e.g., contact sports), such as football,ice-hockey, rugby, boxing, kickboxing, soccer, water polo, wrestling, aswell as other contact sports. An estimated three million peopleworldwide, ages five to twenty-one and older, participate in amateurwrestling. Yet there are no mandated standards for wrestling headgear.Ear-guards are generally considered a form of headgear, but this term isa misnomer because ear-guards protect only the ears. While variousear-guards are available for use by wrestling participants, theseear-guards are designed to protect the outer ears but not to provideprotection against head injuries, and as a result the ear-guards areineffective in providing protection for the head, face, eyes, jaw, andbrain of the participants. In regard to mandated standards, ear-guardsare mandatory in high school and college programs and competitions inthe United States, but ear-guards are optional in internationalcompetition.

Ear-guards are generally made from a molded plastic polymer, or vinylcoated energy absorbing foam, which is disposed over two rigid plasticliners. The ear-guards generally have a number of straps that extendbetween them in order for the participant to secure the ear-guards tothe participant's head. For example, the ear-guards generally haveseveral straps that extend behind the head, several straps that extendin the front-and-top of the head, and one strap that extends under thechin or on the chin. Moreover, the ear-guards are generally securedusing hook-and-loop or button-snap mechanisms. Not only do ear-guardsprovide no protection against head injuries, but the straps also do notadequately secure the ear-guards to the head of the participant evenwhen strapped tightly to the participant's head, and as such do notadequately prevent shifting or movement of the ear-guards duringcontact, which can lead to head-related injuries of the participant.More specifically, because the several straps are constantly pulled invarious directions during contact, the ear-guards provide no protectionagainst axial rotation of the head, which can stress significantly theneck muscles that support the participant's head.

Participants in wrestling, like other contact sports, have a higher riskof sustaining head injuries when compared to other non-contact sportsdue to levels of force coupled with types of impact that are prevalentin wrestling. In this regard, the rules of play in wrestling reward aparticipant in taking down an opponent from the standing position to themat, and further, forcing the opponent to his/her back for severalseconds. The foregoing can be accomplished by executing varioustechniques, most of which require significant force and acceleration.However, unlike other contact sports, such as football, ice-hockey, andseveral other sports, not all wrestling organizations mandate headgear,and further, equipment manufacturers have not produced headgear thatwould protect participants, particularly those participants at the youthand amateur levels, from sustaining various head injuries, such as head,face, eyes, jaw, and brain injuries.

It is therefore desirable to provide lightweight protective headgear,which can be easily disposed on a participant's head, fastened thereto,and removed therefrom, while providing a protective function thatreduces the potential for head injuries.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an embodiment, a protective headgear is disclosed.The protective headwear includes a first shell section, a second shellsection, a third shell section, and a fourth shell section.

The first shell section is configured to extend about a head of theuser, and includes a first central portion, a first strap and a secondstrap that extend from the first shell section. The first centralportion includes a first protective layer and a second protective layerdisposed atop the first protective layer.

The second shell section is configured to extend about a jaw of theuser, and includes a second central portion, a third strap and a fourthstrap that extend from the second shell section.

The third shell section is connected to the first shell section by thefirst strap and the third strap, and the fourth shell section isconnected to the second shell section by the second strap and the fourthstrap.

The first central portion can include at least one opening through thefirst central portion.

The first protective layer can have a trapezoid shape. The trapezoidshape can have bowed top and bottom bases.

The second protective layer can have a bowtie shape, wherein the bowtieshape includes a first section, a second section, and a middle sectionthat connects the first section and the second section. An openingthrough the second protective layer can be disposed along the middlesection and can separate the first section and the second section.

The second protective layer can include two sections that are disposedatop the first protective layer. An opening through the secondprotective layer can separate the two sections disposed atop the firstprotective layer.

A strap of the first strap and the second strap can include two or morestrap sections. The strap sections of the strap can have sloping wallsthat form a v-shaped recess between the strap sections. Moreover, atleast one strap section can include an opening through the strap.

The headgear can further include a first lead, a second lead, a firstconnector, and a second connector. The first lead extends through afirst channel in the first shell section, wherein the first lead has afirst end and a second end. The second lead extends through a secondchannel in the second shell section, wherein the second lead has a thirdend and a fourth end.

The first connector is disposed atop the third shell section, whereinthe first connector receives the first end and the third end. The secondconnector is disposed atop the fourth shell section, wherein the secondconnector receives the second end and the fourth end.

The headgear can further include a first coupler, and a second coupler.The first coupler can be disposed in the first connector, and can couplethe first end and the third end. The second coupler can be disposed inthe second connector, and can couple the second end and the fourth end.

The headgear can further include a tail section and a third lead. Thetail section includes a lock. The third lead has a fifth end and sixthend. The third lead is connected to the lock, wherein the firstconnector additionally receives the fifth end, and the second connectoradditionally receives the sixth end. Moreover, the first coupler canadditionally couple the fifth end, and the second coupler canadditionally couple the sixth end.

The lock is configured to be rotated in a first direction that tensionsthe third lead, wherein the third lead in turn tensions the first leadand the second lead via the first coupler and the second coupler.Moreover, the lock is further configured to be rotated in a seconddirection that releases tension from the third lead, wherein the thirdlead in turn releases tension from the first lead and the second leadvia the first coupler and the second coupler, respectively.

The headgear can further include an eye shield that has a first strapand a second strap. The connector can further include a first straplock, wherein the first strap lock receives and secures the first strap.The second connector can further include a second strap lock, whereinthe second strap lock receives and secures the second strap.

Moreover, the first strap can include a first set of sloped projections,and the second strap includes a second set of sloped projections. Thefirst strap lock can include a third set of reciprocal slopedprojections, wherein the third set of projections engages the first setof projections. Similarly, the second strap lock can include a fourthset of reciprocal sloped projections, wherein the fourth set ofprojections engages the second set of projections.

Additionally, the first strap lock can include a first openingconfigured to receive the first strap therein, and the second strap lockcan include a second opening configured to receive the second straptherein.

These and other purposes, goals and advantages of the presentapplication will become apparent from the following detailed descriptionof example embodiments read in connection with the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation inthe figures of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an exampleform-fitting protective headgear with an example integrated fasteningsystem and an example detachable eye shield;

FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate an example flexible shell of the protectiveheadgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an example base of a connector of the fasteningsystem associated with the protective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate an example cover of the connector of thefastening system associated with the protective headgear illustrated inFIG. 1;

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an example stabilizer of the fastening systemassociated with the protective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an example detachable eye shield of theprotective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate an example chin guard of the fastening systemassociated with the protective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an example lock holder of the fastening systemassociated with the protective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate several views of the assembled form-fittingprotective headgear with the integrated fastening system and thedetachable eye shield as illustrated in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 10 illustrates the integration of the example lock holderillustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C with the example lock illustrated in FIGS.9A-9C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A form-fitting protective headgear with an integrated fastening systemand a detachable eye shield is disclosed herein. In the followingdescription, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific detailsare set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exampleembodiments. It will be evident, however, to one skilled in the art,that an example embodiment may be practiced without all of the disclosedspecific details.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view an example form-fittingprotective headgear 100 with an example integrated fastening system andan example detachable eye shield. The protective headgear 100 includes aflexible shell 102, connectors 104, forehead stabilizer 106, eye shield108, chin guard 110, lock holder 112, leads (illustrated in FIGS.9A-9C), and lock (illustrated in FIG. 10).

The protective headgear 100 is configured to provide a combination ofprotective functionality in an aesthetic, easy-to-use, and lightweightform-factor, which can reduce the potential for head injuries, such ashead, face, eyes, jaw, and brain injuries. In some embodiments, theprotective headwear 100 can be used with and without the eye shield 108.Moreover, in some embodiments the forehead stabilizer 106 can beomitted.

The flexible shell 102 is contoured to fit precisely and aestheticallyabout a participant's head and chin, as well as being configured toprovide a protective function against head injuries resulting fromvarious activities in which the participant engages. The flexible shell102 is a monolithic, multilayer, dual-injection molded design that islightweight and provides flexibility such that the protective headgear100 can be easily disposed on a participant's head and removedtherefrom. The flexible shell 102 is made in dual-injection mold fromtwo halves, which are generally mirror images of one another about acenterline 101.

The flexible shell 102 is made of an elastomeric polymer, which enablesthe flexible shell 102 to be soft and flexible. The elastomeric polymercan be, for example, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), which is also knownas polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA). Other materials can be usedinclude rubber, PVC, HDPE (high density polyethylene), and silicone, aswell as various combinations thereof. The construction of the flexibleshell 102 is described in greater detail hereinbelow in view of FIGS.2A-2E.

The connector 104 is a central junction that facilitates the connectionof several leads—e.g., forehead, jaw, and tail leads—for the tighteningand releasing (e.g., simultaneous and/or contemporaneous tightening andreleasing of the several leads) of the fastening system associated withthe protective headgear 100. While the left and right connectors shownon opposite sides of the flexible shell 102 are labeled with the samereference number, it should nonetheless be understood that theseconnectors 104 are mirror images of one another. However, in differentembodiments the connectors 104 of the opposite sides of the flexibleshell 102 can also be different, as may be desired. For example, theleft and the right connectors 104 can be different in order to allow forthe correction of a head deformity, or one or more other reasons.

The connector 104 can be made of plastic or a thermoplastic that islight-weight yet exhibits high impact resistance and mechanicaltoughness. For example, the thermoplastic can be acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK),polyetherimide, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (e.g., Teflon), one ormore other materials, as well as combinations of materials.

The connector 104 includes a connector base 104 a and a connector cover104 b. The connector base 104 a mates with a similarly-shaped recess ofthe flexible shell 102. While the connector base 104 a can be glued tothe recess of the flexible shell 102 using an adhesive, the connectorcover 104 b includes a combination of several tabs and projections suchthat the connector cover 104 b can snap-lock with the connector base 104a. In various embodiments, the connector base 104 a can alternatively,or in addition, be riveted to the flexible shell 102. The constructionsof the connector base 104 a and the connector cover 104 b of theconnector 104 are described in greater detail hereinbelow in view ofFIGS. 3A-3C and 4A-4C, respectively.

The forehead stabilizer 106 provides stabilization to a forehead part ofthe frontal portion of the flexible shell 102, such that eye shield 108can be retained in connection with the flexible shell 102. The foreheadstabilizer 106 mates with and is glued to a similarly-shaped recess ofthe flexible shell 102.

Moreover, the forehead stabilizer 106 includes a channel thatfacilitates the passage of the forehead lead in connection with (e.g.,over) the forehead part of the flexible shell 102. The foreheadstabilizer 106 can be made of a plastic or thermoplastic that islight-weight yet exhibits high impact resistance and mechanicaltoughness. For example, the forehead stabilizer 106 is made of the samematerial as the connector 104 described hereinabove. The construction ofthe forehead stabilizer 106 is described in greater detail hereinbelowin view of FIGS. 5A-5C.

The eye shield 108 is configured to provide durable and distortion-freeoptical clarity through an entire range of vision. In addition, the eyeshield 108 provides venting apertures or openings to reduce fogging, andcan be coated with anti-fog coating to resist fogging.

The eye shield 108 is configured to contour to the participant's facialstructure from a generally planar configuration to curvilinearstructure, easily attaching to and detaching from the connectors 104 ofprotective headgear 100 via locking straps, to ensure clear peripheralvision of the participant at all angles. In this regard, the eye shield108 is injection molded from a clear plastic, such as a polycarbonatethat provides a flexible, impact-resistant, and shatter-proof formfactor.

In view of the foregoing, the eye shield 108 can easily guard the eyesagainst various intentional and/or unintentional occurrences, such asusing fingers to pinch, gouge, or scratch, as well as striking using thehands, fists, elbows, feet, knees, and/or the head. The construction ofthe eye shield 108 is described in greater detail hereinbelow in view ofFIGS. 6A-6C.

The chin guard 110 is configured to protect the chin from damage causedby contact, such as for example contact with a participant and/or themat. The chin guard 110 generally has curvilinear shell-shapedstructure. The chin guard 110 can be made of a plastic or thermoplasticthat is light-weight yet exhibits high impact resistance and mechanicaltoughness. The chin guard 110 mates with a similarly-shaped recess ofthe flexible shell 102. The chin guard 110 can be glued to the recess ofthe flexible shell 102. Moreover, the chin guard 110 includes a channelthat facilitates the passage of the jaw lead in connection with (e.g.,over) the chin part of the flexible shell 102.

The chin guard 110 can be made of plastic or a thermoplastic that islight-weight yet exhibits high impact resistance and mechanicaltoughness. For example, the chin guard 110 can be made of the samematerial as the connector 104, which was described hereinabove. Theconstruction of the chin guard 110 is described in greater detailhereinbelow in view of FIGS. 7A-7C.

The lock holder 112 is configured to connect with and retain the lock inrelation to the protective headgear 100. Moreover, the lock holder 112is further configured to receive a tail lead from the connectors 104,and further to facilitate the passage of the tail lead through lockholder 112 such that they can connect with the lock. The lock holder 112generally has as a bow-tie shape and mates with a similarly-shapedrecess of the flexible shell 102. The lock holder 112 can be glued tothe recess of the flexible shell 102. In various embodiments, the lockholder 112 can alternatively, or in addition, be riveted to the flexibleshell 102.

The leads include the forehead, jaw, and rear leads that integrate andunify the fastening system associated with the protective headgear 100.The leads can be made as a monolithic lead (e.g., one lead), or can beconnected or joined together, such as by fusing, gluing, tying, and/orusing a connector (e.g., y-connector illustrated in FIG. 9C). Moreover,the leads are configured to be non-stretchable and capable ofwithstanding a substantial amount of tension, e.g., 300 lbs. −400 lbs.The ability to resist stretching mitigates damage to the flexible shell102 as well as to other components of the protective headgear 100.

The leads can be wires, cables, ropes, and/or strings. The leads can bemetal, plastic, or a combination thereof, such as plastic-coated orjacketed metal. The metal can be solid, stranded, braded and/or plaited.The rope or string can be natural or synthetic, such as nylon,polypropylene, polyester high modulus polyethylene (HMPE), aramid,and/or combinations thereof. The leads are described in greater detailhereinbelow in view of FIGS. 9A-9C.

The lock is configured to be received into and secured by the lockholder 112. The lock is further configured to connect and lock the taillead from the connectors 104. Moreover, the lock is also configured toshorten and lock the tail lead in a predetermined amount by rotating ina first direction (e.g., clockwise), such that the forehead and jawleads can be shortened—each shortened approximately evenly by half ofthe rear-lead amount—in order to tighten the integrated fasteningsystem.

Similarly, the lock is also configured with a quick-release by rotatingin a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), which releases the taillead—in order to release the forehead and jaw leads—allowing theparticipant to easily take off the protective headgear 100 from theparticipant's head. The lock provides improved performance, precision,comfort, durability, as well as fast and convenient operation. The lockis described in greater detail hereinbelow in view of FIG. 10.

The activities for which the protective headgear 100 will findimplementation can include, for example, wrestling, rollerblading,biking, hiking, skateboarding, touch football, soccer, field hockey,girls lacrosse, water polo, rock climbing, skiing, and snowboarding, aswell as other sports and/or activities. The foregoing list of sports andactivities is not exhaustive, and people engaged in other sports and/orother activities that are not enumerated can benefit from the protectivefunction in an aesthetic form-factor provided by the protective headgear100. For example, the headgear 100 can find application in activitiessuch as piloting remote aircraft (e.g., drones).

FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate an example flexible shell 102 of the protectiveheadgear 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

The flexible shell 102 is contoured such that it fits precisely andaesthetically about a participant's head and chin, and is furtherconfigured to provide a protective function against head injuriesresulting from various activities in which the participant engages. Inthese regards, the flexible shell 102 provides a form-factor that islightweight and flexible such that the protective headgear 100 can beeasily disposed on a participant's head and removed therefrom throughopening 201.

The flexible shell 102 is configured to at least partially cover thehead of the participant, including the frontal, parietal, temporal,occipital, and cerebellum brain portions of the participant's head, aswell as the jaw of the participant, including the chin portion. Theconstruction of the flexible shell 102 includes several shell sections202, 222, 244, 262, 282, and 290, which are generally associated withthe aforementioned portions of the head and the jaw. More specifically,the frontal shell section 202, the parietal shell section 222, theoccipital shell section 244, the cerebellum shell section 262, and thetemporal shell section 282 are generally associated respectively withthe frontal, the parietal, the occipital, the cerebellum, and thetemporal brain portions of the participant's head. In addition, the jawshell section 290 is generally associated with the jaw portion of theparticipant's head. For clarity and brevity of the description, theseveral sections 202, 222, 244, 262, 282, and 290 will hereinafter besimply referred to simply as shell sections.

The shell sections 202, 222, 244, and 290 extend radially from the lefttemporal shell section 282 in a curvilinear or arcuate direction to theright temporal shell section 282, which are generally central to theforegoing shell sections and facilitate the formation of the flexibleshell 102. The shell sections 202, 222, and 244 are configured to extendabout or around the head, and the shell section 290 is configured toextend about or around the jaw. While the left and the right temporalshell sections 282 shown on opposite sides of the flexible shell 102(FIG. 2B) are labeled with the same reference number, it shouldnonetheless be understood that these shell sections 282 are mirrorimages of one another. However, in different embodiments the temporalshell sections 282 of the opposite sides of the flexible shell 102 canalso be different, as may be desired. For example, the left and theright temporal shell sections 282 can be different in order to allow forthe correction of a head deformity, or one or more other reasons.

The cerebellum shell section 262 is configured to extend in acurvilinear or arcuate direction down from the occipital shell section244. More specifically, the shell section 262 is configured to extenddown the back of the head and toward the neck.

The flexible shell 102 has a structure that is generally monolithic andmultilayered, and which is lightweight and provides flexibility suchthat the protective headgear 100 can be easily disposed on theparticipant's head. More specifically, the shell sections 202, 222, 244,262, 282 and 290 are disposed in relationship to one another to createan expandable opening 201. The expandable opening 201 allows theflexible shell to be easily disposed on a participant's head and removedtherefrom through the opening 201, such that shell sections 202, 222,244, and 262 are disposed atop and about the head, left and right shellsections 282 are disposed atop and about the ears, while shell section290 is disposed atop and about the jaw. When the flexible shell 102 isdisposed atop the participant's head, the face of the participant isdisposed in the opening 203 that is formed between the shell sectionsections 202 and 290.

The flexible shell 102 generally includes a three-layered structure,which includes a first base layer, a second middle layer, and a thirdtop layer. The base layer is generally illustrated as layer 200. Thestructure of the layers, as well as the number of the layers, can varyamong the shell sections, as will be described in greater detailhereinbelow. Moreover, the flexible shell 102 is not limited to thethree-layered structure and the structure of the flexible shell 102 canthus include more or fewer layers.

The frontal shell section 202 includes the base layer 200, a middlelayer 204, a top layer 206, a recess 208, a ventilation opening 209, andflexible straps (flex-straps) 216 on opposite sides of the flexibleshell 102. The shell section 202 is generally defined by the middlelayer 204 disposed atop the first base layer 200.

The middle layer 204 is defined by a center section 205, and left andright tapering edge sections 207. More specifically, the tapering edgesections 207 extend from the center section 205 toward the oppositesides of the flexible shell 102 and taper into the flex-straps 216,which connect the frontal shell section 202 to the temporal shellsections 282 on opposite sides of the flexible shell 102.

The top layer 206 includes sections 206 a, 206 b, which are disposedalong the center section 205 of the middle layer 204, and which areseparated by the ventilation opening 209. More specifically, thesections 206 a, 206 b are generally disposed in locations of foreheadbossing, which are sections of the forehead (e.g., protrusions of theforehead) that are located over the brow of the participant's eyes. Thesections 206 a, 206 b are generally irregular trapezoidal shapes, andextend along the middle layer between flex-straps 216. The sections 206a, 206 b have bottom portions (bases) that extend in the direction ofthe flex-straps 216, and provide a contour that tapers toward thetapering of the edge sections 207 of the center section 205. Variousdifferent shapes of the sections 206 a, 206 b can of course be provided,such as rectangles, circulars, squares, other geometric shapes, as wellas combinations of the geometric shapes.

The recess 208 extends arcuately or curvilinearly across the middlelayer 204 between the flex-straps 216, and is configured to receiveforehead stabilizer 106. A plurality of slots 215 are provided along theinterior of the base layer 200 of the frontal shell section 202, whichare configured to receive tabs of eye shield 108, such that the eyeshield 108 can be secured along the forehead in relation to the flexibleshell 102.

The ventilation opening 209 is configured to provide for elimination ofheat produced by the participant. The opening 209 is of a generallytrapezoidal shape, which is inverted in relation to the irregulartrapezoidal shapes of sections 206 a, 206 b of the top layer 206.Various different shapes of the opening 209 can of course be providedsuch as rectangles, circulars, squares, other geometric shapes, as wellas combinations of the geometric shapes.

Each of the flex-straps 216 includes strap sections 218, 220, and 221.The strap sections 218, 220, and 221 are generally rectangular (ortrapezoidal) and graduated, tapering along the flex-straps 216 towardthe temporal shell sections 282 on the opposite sides of the flexibleshell 102. One or more walls of the strap sections 218, 220, and 221slope downward toward the base layer 200, forming v-shaped recesses 219.The recesses 219 generally extend to approximate the level of base layer200. Moreover, a similar v-shaped section is provided between section207 of the center section 205 and the strap sections 218 of theflex-straps 216 on the opposite sides of the flexible shell 102. Thisconstruction of the flex-straps 216 provides for and improves theflexibility of the flexible shell 102, while still retaining thesubstantial protective function.

The frontal shell section 202 includes a first channel 210 that extendsarcuately or curvilinearly along the frontal shell section 202 betweenthe temporal shell sections 282 on opposite sides of the flexible shell102. For clarity of the description, the first channel will sometimeshereinafter be designated as the forehead channel. The first (forehead)channel 210 includes a trench 212 along the middle layer 204, andplurality of openings 214 along the flex-straps 216. While the channel210 receives the forehead lead that extends the along the channel 210 ofthe shell section 202 between and to the left and right temporal shellsections 282, the trench 212 receives tubular sections of the foreheadstabilizer 106.

The parietal shell section 222 includes the base layer 200, a middlelayer 224, 240, a top layer 226, ventilation openings 228 a, 228 b, andflexible straps (flex-straps) 230 on opposite sides of the flexibleshell 102. The shell section 222 is generally defined by the middlelayer 224 disposed atop the first base layer 200.

The middle layer 224 generally has a rectangular (or trapezoidal) shape,the sides of which taper from the front to the back of the flexibleshell 102, contouring to the participant's head. The bases of thetrapezoidal shape bow outwardly approximately in the center and tapertoward the temporal shell sections 282, in order to contour to theparticipant's head. Various different shapes of the middle layer 224 canof course be provided, such as rectangles, circulars, squares, othergeometric shapes, as well as combinations of the geometric shapes. Themiddle layer 224 further includes ventilation openings 228 a, 228 b.

The middle layers 224, 240 are disposed at a distance from one another.Similarly, the middle layer 240 generally has a rectangular (ortrapezoidal) shape, the sides of which taper from the front to the backof the flexible shell 102, contouring to the participant's head. Thebases of the trapezoidal shape bow outwardly approximately in the centerand taper toward the temporal shell sections 282, in order to contour tothe participant's head. Various different shapes of the middle layer 240can of course be provided, such as rectangles, circulars, squares, othergeometric shapes, as well as combinations of the geometric shapes. Themiddle layer 240 similarly includes a ventilation opening 242.

Moreover, the base layer 200 of the middle layer 224 extends from themiddle layer 224 toward the opposite sides of the flexible shell 102,and tapers into the flex-straps 230, which connect the shell section 202to the temporal shell sections 282.

The top layer 226 is disposed generally along the center of the middlelayer 224. Further, the top layer 226 generally has a bowtie shape, andextends along the middle layer 224 between flex-straps 230. The bowtieshape has wide side portions connected by a narrow middle portion. Theventilation openings 228 a, 228 b are disposed along the narrow middleportion of the bowtie, thereby separating the wide side portions.

The flex-straps 230 connect the shell section 222 to the temporal shellsections 282. Moreover, each of the flex-straps 230 includes strapsections 232, 236. The strap sections 232, 236 are generally rectangular(or trapezoidal) and graduated, tapering along the flex-straps 230toward the temporal shell sections 282 on the sides of the flexibleshell 102. The strap section 232 is disposed at a distance from strapsection 236. This construction of the flex-straps 230 provides for andimproves the flexibility of the flexible shell 102, while stillretaining the substantial protection function. Moreover, the strapsections 232, 236 include respective ventilation openings 234, 238.

The occipital shell section 244 includes the base layer 200, a middlelayer 246, a top layer 248, ventilation openings 250 a, 250 b, andflexible straps (flex-straps) 252. The shell section 244 is generallydefined by the middle layer 246 disposed atop the first base layer 200.

The middle layer 246 generally has a rectangular (or trapezoidal) shape,the sides of which taper from the front to the back of the flexibleshell 102, contouring to the participant's head. The top base of thetrapezoidal shape bows outwardly approximately in the center and taperstoward the temporal shell sections 282, while the bottom base extendsapproximately straight toward the temporal shell sections 282, in orderto contour to the participant's head. Various different shapes of themiddle layer 246 can of course be provided, such as rectangles,circulars, squares, other geometric shapes, as well as combinations ofthe geometric shapes. Similar to other middle layers, the middle layer246 includes ventilation openings 250 a, 250 b.

The flex-straps 252 connect the shell section 244 to the temporal shellsections 282. Moreover, each of the flex-straps 252 includes strapsections 254, 258. The strap sections 254, 258 are generally rectangular(or trapezoidal) and graduated, tapering along the flex-straps 252toward the temporal shell sections 282 on the sides of the flexibleshell 102. This construction of the flex-straps 252 provides for andimproves the flexibility of the flexible shell 102, while stillretaining the substantial protection function. Moreover, the strapsections 254, 258 include respective ventilation openings 256, 260.

The cerebellum shell section 262 includes the base layer 200 thatextends to a flexible strap (flex-strap) 272, which is configured toextend in a curvilinear or arcuate direction down the back of the headand toward the neck. The flex-strap 272 includes strap sections 264,268, 273. More specifically, the strap sections 264, 268 are generallyrectangular (or trapezoidal) and graduated, tapering along theflex-straps 272 toward the neck of the participant. Moreover, the strapsections 264, 268 include respective ventilation openings 266, 270. Thestrap section 273 is a tail section that has left and right portions,which extend about the head/neck arcuately or curvilinearly toward thetemporal shell sections 282 on the sides of the flexible shell 102. Thetail section 273 includes walls 274, 276 that define a recess 278. Therecess 278 receives the lock holder (FIGS. 8A-8C). The walls 274, 276 ofthe recess 278 bow inwardly toward the recess 278 and provide a heightso that lock holder can be cradled in the recess 278 of the tail section273. The channels 280 extend outwardly toward the temporal shellsections 282 on the sides of the flexible shell 102. These channels 280will guide the tail lead extending from the temporal shell sections 282to the lock holder that can be cradled in the tail section 273. Thisconstruction of the flex-strap 272 provides for and improves theflexibility of the flexible shell 102, while still retaining thesubstantial protective function.

While not shown in detail, the interior surface of the tail section 273can be smooth or textured (e.g., grooves, peaks-and-valleys, etc.).Texturing can provide better gripping of the participant's neck.

The temporal shell section 282 is central section that connects to theflex-straps 216, 230, 252, and 290 (described below), and furtherfacilitates the receipt of the connector 104 and the several leads—e.g.,forehead, jaw, and tail leads—for the tightening and releasing of thefastening system associated with the protective headgear 100. While theleft temporal shell section 282 is shown, it should be understood that aright temporal shell section 282 is on the opposite side of the flexibleshell 102. As described herein, the left and right shell sections 282are mirror images of one another. However, in different embodiments theshell sections 282 of the opposite sides of the flexible shell 102 canalso be different, as may be desired (e.g., deformity correction).

The shell section 282 includes a y-shaped recess 283, guides 284, 285,288, ventilation openings 286, recess 281, and rivet openings 287. They-shaped recess 283 includes guides 284, 285 that connect to therespective channels 210, 211 (described below) of the shell sections202, 290, and guide 288 extends toward guide 280 of the tail section272. Moreover, the guides 284, 285 have respective openings from thechannels 210, 211. It should be noted that the guides 284, 285, and 288facilitate the receipt of the several leads, e.g., forehead, jaw, andtail leads, and further facilitate communication of the leads to theconnector 104.

The ventilation openings 286 are configured to provide for eliminationof heat produced by the participant. The recess 281 facilitates receiptof an eye-shield lock of the connector base 104 a and a strap of eyeshield 108, such that the strap of the eye shield 108 can be disposedinside the connector 104, as will be described in greater detail herein.In embodiments that use rivets to secure the several connectors 104 tothe flexible shell 102, the rivet openings 287 can be provided toreceive respective rivets. In those embodiments that do not use rivets,the rivet openings 287 can of course be omitted.

Ventilation openings 239, 241, and 271 are provided among sections 202,222, and 282, sections 222, 244, and 282, and sections 244, 262, and282, respectively.

The jaw shell section 290 includes flexible straps (flex-straps) 292,which extend along the jaw to chin and the central chin section 296 tothe left and right sections 282 of the flexible shell 102. Theflex-straps 292 can have varying widths, such as being wider about thecheek areas (providing protective function to the cheeks), and taperingto narrower sections along the jaw to the chin section 296. Theflex-straps 292 include multiple sections, which can be of varying widthas described above, such as sections 293, 294. The strap sections 293,294 are generally rectangular (or trapezoidal) and can be graduated ortapering toward the chin section 296 of the flexible shell 102.

While not shown in detail, the interior surface of the chin section 296can be smooth or textured (e.g., grooves, peaks-and-valleys, etc.).Texturing can provide better gripping of the participant's chin.

One or more walls of the strap sections 293, 294 slope downward, formingv-shaped recesses 295. The recesses 295 generally extend to approximatethe level of base layer 200. This construction of the flex-strap 292provides for and improves the flexibility of the flexible shell 102,while still retaining the substantial protective function. The chinsection 296 includes recess 298, which is configured to receive the chinguard 110.

The jaw shell section 290 includes a second channel 211 that extendsarcuately or curvilinearly along the jaw shell section 290 between thetemporal shell sections 282. For clarity of the description, the secondchannel 211 will sometimes hereinafter be designated as the jaw channel.The first (jaw) channel 211 includes a plurality of openings 297 alongthe flex-straps 292, such as that the jaw channel 211 can receive thejaw lead that extends the along the channel 211 of the shell section 290between and to the left and right temporal shell sections 282.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2C-2E, the flexible shell 102 includes aplurality of recesses on the interior of the flexible shell 102 alongthe sections 202, 222, and 244, which can receive impact-absorbingpieces 299 a-299 e. For example, section 202 can receive pieces 299 c,299 d, section 222 can receive pieces 299 a, 299 c, and section 244 canreceive pieces 299 e. The pieces 299 a-299 e are positioned so as tocover substantial portions of the undersurface of the sections 202, 222,and 244, which could provide absorption and dissipation of suddenimpacts to the top of the flexible shell 102.

The pieces 299 a-299 e can be glued into the recesses of the flexibleshell using an adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the pieces 299a-299 e can be formed as part of the dual injection molding of theflexible shell 102. In some embodiments, the pieces 299 a-299 e can havean oval shape. The pieces can be made of viscoelastic foam (e.g., memoryfoam), which can absorb sudden impacts to the flexible shell 102,allowing slowed compression and dissipation of the impacts. The heightpieces 299 a-299 e can facilitate ventilation of heat produced by theparticipant under the flexible shell, such that the heat can bedissipated and eliminated through openings of the flexible shell, suchas openings 209, 228 a, 228 b, 234, 238, 239, 241, 242, 250 a, 250 b,256, 260, 266, and 270.

Various different shapes of the pieces 299 a-299 e can of course beprovided, such as rectangles, circulars, squares, other geometricshapes, as well as combinations of the geometric shapes.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 2C-2E, the flexible shell 102 includes aplurality of slots 215 along the interior of the base layer 200 of thefrontal shell section 202. The slots 215 are configured to receive thetabs of eye shield 108, such that the eye shield 108 can be securedalong the forehead in relation to the flexible shell 102, as stabilizedby the forehead stabilizer 106, for example.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an example connector base 104 a of the connector104 of the fastening system associated with the protective headgear 100,illustrated in FIG. 1.

As described hereinabove, the connector base 104 a mates with a recessof the flexible shell 102. More specifically, the connector base 104 acan be glued and/or riveted to the recess of the temporal shell section282 of the flexible shell 102. In this regard, the connector base 104 ais shaped similarly to the temporal shell section 282 of the flexibleshell 102 to facilitate a smooth mating or connection among theconnector base 104 a and the temporal shell section 282. While the rightconnector base 104 a is illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C, it shouldnonetheless be understood that left connector base 104 a is a mirrorimage. However, in different embodiments the connector base 104 a canalso be different based on the shape of temporal shell section 282 ofthe flexible shell 102, as may be desired for the certain corrections(e.g., head deformity), or one or more other reasons.

The connector base 104 a includes slots 302, 304, snap-lock tabs 306,308, an eye shield lock 310, y-shaped connection recess 316, ventilationopenings 336, 338, and rivet openings 340, 342.

The slots 302, 304 are formed in the connector base 104 a and receivetabs of the connector cover 104 b. Similarly, the snap-lock tabs 306,308 are formed in the connector base 104 a and engage snap-lockprojections of the connector cover 104 b. In this manner, the connectorcover 104 b can be disposed easily in relation to the connector base 104a using slots 302, 304, and further snap-locked in relation to theconnector base 104 a using snap-lock tabs 306, 308.

The eye shield lock 310 includes staggered projections 312 and anopening 314. The projections 312 are angled or sloped (e.g., toward slot302) so that the straps of the eye shield can be received into theopening 314, and reciprocal projections of the straps can be engaged andlocked in the eye shield lock 310.

The y-shaped connection recess 316 is configured as a junction thatfacilitates the receipt of the forehead, jaw, and tail leads, and theconnection of the aforementioned leads, such as via a y-connector (FIG.9C). As described hereinbefore, the leads can be made as a monolithiclead (e.g., one lead), or can be connected or joined together, such asby fusing, gluing, tying, and/or using a connector (e.g., y-connectorillustrated in FIG. 9C). Moreover, the recess 316 facilitates thecontainment and smooth operation of the leads in tightening andreleasing the fastening system of the protective headgear 100. In thisregard, the y-shaped connection recess 316 includes guide sections 318,324, and 330.

The guide sections 318, 324, and 330 include respective combinations ofopenings and guides. More specifically, guide section 318 includes anopening 320 and a guide 322, guide section 324 includes an opening 326and a guide 328, and guide section 330 includes an opening 332 and aguide 334. The guide sections 318, 324, and 330 facilitate the guidanceof the leads during operation of the fastening system of the protectiveheadgear 100.

The ventilation openings 336, 338 generally overlap similarly-shapedventilation openings 286, 286 in the temporal shell section 282 of theflexible shell 102.

The rivet openings 340, 342 allow rivets to be extended through theopenings 340, 342 and overlapping openings 287 in the temporal shellsection 282 of the flexible shell 102, so that rivets can be used tosecure the connector base 104 a to the flexible shell 102.

Sections 344 and 346 are used to illustrate the contour of the connectorbase 104 a in connection with the temple and ears of the participant.More specifically, section 344 is generally a flat section that contoursthe participant's temple, while section 346 is generally a raisedsection that is arcuate or curvilinear to contour the participant's ear.Section 344 transitions smoothly to section 346.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate an example connector cover 104 b of the connector104 of the fastening system associated with the protective headgear 100illustrated in FIG. 1.

The connector cover 104 b includes tabs 402, 404, snap-lock projections406, 408, a recess 410, and one or more ventilation openings 412.

The tabs 402, 404 extend generally outwardly from the periphery of theconnector cover 104 b, and the snap-lock projections 406, 408 (e.g.,L-shaped projections) extend generally downwardly from the connectorcover 104 b. While the tabs 402, 404 are received in a sliding fashioninto the reciprocal slots 302, 304 of the connector base 104 a, theprojections 406, 408 deflect and then engage the reciprocal snap-locktabs 306, 308 of the connector base 104 a.

As described hereinabove, the connector cover 104 b can be disposedeasily in relation to the connector base 104 a, and further snap-lockedin relation to the connector base 104 a. Moreover, the snap-lockprojections 406, 408 are releaseably secured (e.g., L-shape includes armand locking extension that are at an angle to one another), which allowsthe snap-lock projections 406, 408 to be released from the engagementwith the snap-lock tabs 306. In this fashion, the connector cover 104 beffectively covers the junction and connection of the forehead, jaw, andtail leads via the connector base 104 a, while allowing access to thejunction if and when necessary.

The recess 410 of connector cover 104 b overlaps partially the opening314 of the connector base 104 a. This facilitates receipt of eye shieldstraps into the opening 314 and retention of the straps in the opening314, once the projections of the straps engage the projections 312 ofthe eye shield lock 310.

The one or more ventilation openings 412 are disposed over theventilation openings 336, 338 of the connector base 104 a. This allowsventilation and dissipation of heat from the participant to the outsideof the headgear 100.

Sections 414 and 416 are used to illustrate the contour of the connectorcover 104 b in connection with the temple and ears of the participant.These section are generally similar to the contours of section 344, 346,where section 344 is generally a flat section that contours theparticipant's temple, while section 346 is generally a raised sectionthat is arcuate or curvilinear to contour the participant's ear. Section414 transitions smoothly to section 416.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an example stabilizer 106 of the fastening systemassociated with the protective headgear illustrated in FIG. 1.

The stabilizer 106 includes a top edge 502, bottom edges 504, 506,recessed edge 508, side edges 510, 510, an openings 512, and channelsections 514. The stabilizer 106 has a generally arcuate or curvilinearcross-section A-A, so that the stabilizer 106 can be disposed in therecess 208 of the flexible shell 102.

The top edge 502 has a bowed contour and extends along the frontal shellsection 202 of flexible shell 102 between flex-straps 216. The bottomedges 504, 506 are separated by a recessed edge 508 and are arcuate orcurvilinear extending toward the side edges 510, 510, contouring thetapering edge sections 207 of shell section 202. The recessed edge 508is generally linear and engages a similarly-shaped projection of therecess 208, so that stabilizer 106 can be disposed and/retainedprecisely in the recess 208.

The channel sections 514 have openings 512. The channel sections 514 areconfigured to be disposed in reciprocal trench sections in the trench212 of the recess 208 in the shell section 202 of flexible shell 102.The channel sections 514 cooperate with the channel 210 in order toallow the forehead lead to advance or extend about the frontal shell202, between and to the shell section 282.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an example detachable eye shield 108 of theprotective headgear 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

The eye shield 108 includes a frame 600, straps 602, lens 606, andventilation slits 608, ventilation openings 610, projections 612, andtabs 614.

The frame 600 is configured to contour to the participant's facialstructure from a generally planar configuration to curvilinearstructure, easily attaching to and detaching from the connector 104 ofprotective headgear 100.

The straps 602 are configured to be received into the opening 314 of theeye shield lock 310. The straps include slits 604 and staggeredprojections 612. The slits 604 enables the participant to pull thestraps 602 in order to engage and release the straps in relation to theeye shield lock 310. Specifically, the staggered projections 612 areangled or sloped (e.g., toward frame 606) so that the straps 602 of theeye shield 108 can engage and release from the engagement projections312 of the lock 310, pulling or pushing the straps 602 by using theslits 604.

As described herein, the lens 606 is configured to provide durable anddistortion-free optical clarity through an entire range of vision,ensuring clear peripheral vision of the participant at all angles. Thelens 606 is also configured to contour from a generally planarconfiguration to curvilinear structure. Moreover, the lens 606 isreplaceable and thus friction-fit into channels (not shown) of the frame600. The lens 606 is shorter on the peripheral sides of the frame 600,which provides ventilation openings 610. Ventilation slits 608 andventilation openings 610 facilitate ventilation of air in order tomitigate fogging. As discussed hereinabove, an anti-fogging coating canalso be disposed on the interior surface of the lens 606 to furtherresist fogging.

The tabs 614 are configured to slide into slots 215 provided along theinterior of the base layer 200 of the frontal shell section 202, so thatthe shield 108 can be secured in relation to the flexible shell 102. Asdescribed herein, the forehead stabilizer 106 provides stabilization ofthe flexible shell 102, so that the eye shield 108 can be retained moresecurely in connection with the flexible shell 102.

FIG. 7A-7C illustrate an example chin guard 110 of the fastening systemassociated with the protective headgear 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

The chin guard 110 generally has a curvilinear shell-shaped structure inorder to protect the chin. The outer periphery 702 of the chin guard 110is generally oval, with curvilinear edges 712, an arcuate top surface716, bottom edge surface 718, and a recessed interior 714, which serveto contour the chin. The chin guard 110 includes channels 704, 706,which include recessed channel sections 710 and terminal openings 708.The channel sections 704, 706 cooperate with the channel 211 in order toallow the jaw lead to advance or extend about the jaw shell section 290,between and to the shell section 282.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an example lock holder 112 of the fasteningsystem associated with the protective headgear 100 illustrated in FIG.1.

The lock holder 112 is configured to connect with and retain the lock(FIGS. 9B and 10) in relation to the protective headgear 100. The lockholder 112 generally has a bowtie shape, with peripheral sections 802,812 connected by recessed center section 822. The left peripheralsection 802 of the bowtie includes wall 804 with openings 808, 810, andsloping surface 806 with opening 807. Similarly, the right peripheralsection 812 of the bowtie includes wall 814 with openings 818, 820, andsloping surface 816 with opening 817.

The recessed center section 822 receives and secures the lock (FIGS. 9Band 10) using respective tabs of the lock that slide into and engage theopenings 810, 820. The tail lead from the shell sections 282 extendsalong guide channels 824, 826 through the respective openings 808, 818to the center section 822, so that the lead can be connected to the lockthat is disposed in the center section 822.

The openings 807, 817 can be provided to receive rivets that can be usedto reinforce securement of the lock holder 112 to the tail section 273.In those embodiments that do not use rivets, the openings 807, 817 canbe omitted and the lock holder 112 can be glued to the tail section 273of the flexible shell 102. Moreover, the rivets can be usedalternatively or additionally to gluing the lock holder 112 to the tailsection.

The recesses 828 can be provided in the respective sloped surfaces 806,816, through which the openings 807, 817 can be provided to secure therivets to the lock holder 122 and the flexible shell 102. While only twoopenings are shown, there may be more or fewer openings (e.g., four (4)openings) in the recesses 828 to receive rivets (e.g., four (4) rivets).

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate several views of the assembled form-fittingprotective headgear 100 with the integrated fastening system and thedetachable eye shield as illustrated in FIG. 1.

As illustrated, a forehead lead 902 extends through channel 210 andchannel sections 514 of the stabilizer 106 from the left temporal shellsection 282 to the right temporal shell sections 282, and is received ina y-shaped connection recess 316 of the connectors 104. Similarly, a jawlead 904 extends through channel 211 and channels 704, 706 of the chinguard 110 from the left temporal shell section 282 to the right temporalshell section 282, and is received in the y-shaped connection recess 316of the connectors 104. Moreover, a tail lead 906 extends throughchannels 824, 826 of the lock holder 112 and engages the lock 910 in thetail section 273 from the left temporal shell section 282 to the righttemporal shell section 282, and is received in the y-shaped connectionrecess 316 of the connectors 104. As illustrated, the lock 910 issecured to the lock holder 112.

A y-shaped coupler 909 is used to connect the ends of the forehead, jaw,and tail leads 902, 904, and 906, respectively. The Y-shaped coupler 909is disposed in the connector 104 in the y-shaped connection recess 316between guide sections 318, 324, and 330.

The straps 602 of the eye shield 108 are received into the eye shieldlock 310, and the tabs 614 of the eye shield 108 are received into slots215 provided along the interior of the frontal shell section 202, sothat the shield 108 is secured in relation to the flexible shell 102.The forehead stabilizer 106 provides stabilization of the flexible shell102, so that the eye shield 108 can be retained more securely inconnection with the flexible shell 102.

FIG. 10 illustrates the integration of the example lock holder 112illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C with the example lock 910 illustrated inFIGS. 9A-9C.

The lock 910 is configured to be received into and secured by the lockholder 112. Specifically, the lock includes tabs 912, 914 that arereceived into respective openings 810, 820 to secure the lock 910 in thecenter section 822 of the lock holder 112.

The lock 910 is further configured to connect the tail lead 906 thatextends from the left and right connectors 104. The lock 910 wraps thetail lead around a spool (not shown) and can shorten (and lock) the taillead 906 in a predetermined amount by rotating a wheel 916 in a firstdirection (e.g., clockwise), such that the forehead and jaw leads 902,904 can be shortened—each shortened approximately evenly by half of thetail-lead amount—in order to tighten the integrated fastening system ofthe headgear 100 so that the headgear 100 is disposed tightly around theparticipant's head.

Similarly, the lock 910 is also configured with a quick-release byrotating the wheel 916 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise),which can release the tail lead 906—in order to release the forehead andjaw leads 902, 904—allowing the participant to easily take off theprotective headgear 100 from the participant's head. The headgear 100 asintegrated with the lock 910 and other elements as described hereinprovides much improved performance, precision, comfort, durability, aswell as fast and convenient operation.

As further illustrated, rivets 1002, 1004 can be inserted throughopenings 807, 817 in the recesses 828, 828 of the sloped surfaces 806,816, so that the lock holder 112 is more securely attached to theflexible shell 102. While only rivets 1002, 1004 are shown, more orfewer rivets can be provided through the openings in the recesses 828,such as above or below the shown rivets 1002, 1004.

Thus, a form-fitting protective headgear with an integrated fasteningsystem and a detachable eye shield have been described. Althoughspecific example embodiments have been described, it will be evidentthat various modifications and changes may be made to these embodimentswithout departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention.

Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in anillustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The accompanying drawingsthat form a part hereof, show by way of illustration, and not oflimitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may bepracticed. The embodiments shown are described in sufficient detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosedherein. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, suchthat structural and logical substitutions and changes may be madewithout departing from the scope of this application.

The foregoing detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in alimiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments is defined only bythe appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to whichsuch claims are entitled.

Although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, itshould be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve thesame purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. Thisapplication is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variationsof various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments and otherembodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to thoseof skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and willallow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technicaldisclosure of this application. It is submitted with the understandingthat it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning ofthe claims.

In the foregoing detailed description, various features may be groupedtogether in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining thedisclosure of this application. This method of disclosure is not to beinterpreted as reflecting that the claimed embodiments have morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than allfeatures of a single disclosed embodiment.

Moreover, it is contemplated that the features or components of variousembodiments described herein can be combined into different combinationsthat are not explicitly enumerated in the foregoing detailed descriptionand that such combinations can similarly stand on their own as separateexample embodiments that can be claimed.

1. A headgear to provide a protective function to a user, the headgearcomprising: flexible shell configured to at least partially extend abouta head of the user, the flexible shell including at least a frontalshell section, a jaw shell section, a left temporal shell section and aright temporal shell section; a forehead lead extending across thefrontal shell section, the forehead lead having a first end and anoppositely disposed second end; and a jaw lead extending across the jawshell section, the jaw lead having a third end and an oppositelydisposed fourth end; wherein the frontal shell section includes a firststrap and a second strap extending therefrom; wherein the jaw shellsection includes a third strap and a fourth strap extending therefrom;wherein the left temporal shell section is connected to the frontalshell section by the first strap of the frontal shell section and isconnected to the jaw shell section by the third strap of the jaw shellsection; wherein the right temporal shell section is connected to thefrontal shell section by the second strap of the frontal shell sectionand is connected to the jaw shell section by the fourth strap of the jawshell section; and wherein the third end of the jaw lead is coupled tothe first end of the forehead lead and the fourth end of the jaw lead iscoupled to the second end of the forehead lead.
 2. (canceled) 3.(canceled)
 4. (canceled)
 5. (canceled)
 6. (canceled)
 7. (canceled) 8.(canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled)
 11. (canceled)
 12. The headgearof claim 1, further comprising: a first connector situated on the lefttemporal shell section, the first connector receiving the first end ofthe forehead lead and the third end of the jaw lead; and a secondconnector situated on the right temporal shell section, the secondconnector receiving the second end of the forehead lead and the fourthend of the jaw lead.
 13. The headgear of claim 1, further comprising: afirst coupler situated in proximity to the left temporal shell section,the first coupler coupling the first end of the forehead lead and thethird end of the jaw lead; and a second coupler situated in proximity tothe right temporal shell section, the second coupler coupling the secondend of the forehead lead and the fourth end of the jaw lead.
 14. Theheadgear of claim 1, further comprising: a tail section; and a tail leadconnected to the tail section, the tail lead having a fifth end and anoppositely disposed sixth end, the fifth end being coupled to the firstend of the forehead lead and the third end of the jaw lead, the sixthend being coupled to the second end of the forehead lead and the fourthend of the jaw lead.
 15. The headgear of claim 14, further comprising: afirst coupler situated in proximity to the left temporal shell section;and a second coupler situated in proximity to the right temporal shellsection; wherein the first coupler couples the first end of the foreheadlead, the third end of the jaw lead and the fifth end of the tail lead;and wherein the second coupler couples the second end of the foreheadlead, the fourth end of the jaw lead and the sixth end of the tail lead.16. (canceled)
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled) 20.(canceled)
 21. The headgear of claim 13, which further comprises: afirst connector situated on the left temporal shell section, the firstconnector receiving the first end of the forehead lead and the third endof the jaw lead; and a second connector situated on the right temporalshell section, the second connector receiving the second end of theforehead lead and the fourth end of the jaw lead; wherein the firstcoupler is situated in the first connector and the second coupler issituated in the second connector.
 22. The headgear of claim 14, whereinthe tail section further comprises a lock, the tail lead being connectedto the lock.
 23. The headgear of claim 22, wherein the lock isselectively rotatable in at least one of a first direction and a seconddirection, wherein the selective rotation of the lock in the firstdirection tensions the tail lead, the tail lead in turn tensioning theforehead lead and the jaw lead coupled thereto, wherein the selectiverotation of the lock in the second direction releases tension from thetail lead, the tail lead in turn releasing tension from the foreheadlead and the jaw lead coupled thereto.
 24. A headgear to provide aprotective function to a user, the headgear comprising: a flexible shellconfigured to at least partially extend about a head of the user, theflexible shell including at least a frontal shell section, a tailsection situated opposite to the frontal shell section, a left temporalshell section and a right temporal shell section situated opposite tothe left temporal shell section; a forehead lead extending across thefrontal shell section, the forehead lead having a first end and anoppositely disposed second end; a tail lead extending across the tailsection, the tail lead having a fifth end and an oppositely disposedsixth end; and a lock situated on the tail section, the tail lead beingconnected to the lock; wherein the fifth end of the tail lead is coupledto the first end of the forehead lead and the sixth end of the tail leadis coupled to the second end of the forehead lead.
 25. The headgear ofclaim 24, further comprising: a first connector situated on the lefttemporal shell section, the first connector receiving the first end ofthe forehead lead and the fifth end of the tail lead; and a secondconnector situated on the right temporal shell section, the secondconnector receiving the second end of the forehead lead and the sixthend of the tail lead.
 26. The headgear of claim 24, further comprising:a first coupler situated in proximity to the left temporal shellsection, the first coupler coupling the first end of the forehead leadand the fifth end of the tail lead; and a second coupler situated inproximity to the right temporal shell section, the second couplercoupling the second end of the forehead lead and the sixth end of thetail lead.
 27. The headgear of claim 24, wherein the lock is selectivelyrotatable in at least one of a first direction and a second direction,wherein the selective rotation of the lock in the first directiontensions the tail lead, the tail lead in turn tensioning the foreheadlead coupled thereto, wherein the selective rotation of the lock in thesecond direction releases tension from the tail lead, the tail lead inturn releasing tension from the forehead lead coupled thereto.
 28. Aheadgear to provide a protective function to a user, the headgearcomprising: a flexible shell configured to at least partially extendabout a head of the user, the flexible shell including at least afrontal shell section, a jaw shell section, a left temporal shellsection and a right temporal shell section; a forehead lead extendingacross the frontal shell section, the forehead lead having a first endand an oppositely disposed second end; a jaw lead extending across thejaw shell section, the jaw lead having a third end and an oppositelydisposed fourth end; and a lock coupled to the first end of the foreheadlead, the second end of the forehead lead, third end of the jaw lead andfourth end of the jaw lead, the lock being situated on the flexibleshell.
 29. The headgear of claim 28, wherein the lock is selectivelyrotatable in at least one of a first direction and a second direction,wherein the selective rotation of the lock in the first directiontensions the forehead lead and the jaw lead coupled thereto, wherein theselective rotation of the lock in the second direction releases tensionfrom the forehead lead and the jaw lead coupled thereto.
 30. Theheadgear of claim 28, further comprising: a tail section; and a taillead connected to the lock, the tail lead having a fifth end and anoppositely disposed sixth end, the fifth end being coupled to the firstend of the forehead lead and the third end of the jaw lead, the sixthend being coupled to the second end of the forehead lead and the fourthend of the jaw lead; wherein the tail lead couples the lock to theforehead lead and the jaw lead; and wherein the lock is selectivelyrotatable in at least one of a first direction and a second direction,wherein the selective rotation of the lock in the first directiontensions the tail lead, the tail lead in turn tensioning the foreheadlead and the jaw lead coupled thereto, wherein the selective rotation ofthe lock in the second direction releases tension from the tail lead,the tail lead in turn releasing tension from the forehead lead and thejaw lead coupled thereto.
 31. The headgear of claim 30, furthercomprising: a first coupler situated in proximity to the left temporalshell section; and a second coupler situated in proximity to the righttemporal shell section; wherein the first coupler couples the first endof the forehead lead, the third end of the jaw lead and the fifth end ofthe tail lead; and wherein the second coupler couples the second end ofthe forehead lead, the fourth end of the jaw lead and the sixth end ofthe tail lead.
 32. The headgear of claim 31, wherein the first coupleris situated in the first connector and the second coupler is situated inthe second connector.
 33. The headgear of claim 28, further comprising:a first connector situated on the left temporal shell section, the firstconnector receiving the first end of the forehead lead and the third endof the jaw lead; and a second connector situated on the right temporalshell section, the second connector receiving the second end of theforehead lead and the fourth end of the jaw lead.
 34. The headgear ofclaim 28, further comprising: a first coupler situated in proximity tothe left temporal shell section; and a second coupler situated inproximity to the right temporal shell section; wherein the first couplercouples the first end of the forehead lead and the third end of the jawlead; and wherein the second coupler couples the second end of theforehead lead and the fourth end of the jaw lead.
 35. The headgear ofclaim 28, wherein the forehead lead extends through a first channel inthe frontal shell section and the jaw lead extends through a secondchannel in the jaw shell section.